David Lewis from the development manager Centros said: “This positive decision means that our programme to open the new Morrisons store by the end of 2014 remains on track.

“Over the next few months we will be working through all the planning conditions with council officers and the key local stakeholders with the aim of starting work on site next summer.”

Council leader Richard Williams said he was delighted with the result.

"This brings the promise of 400 new jobs to Southampton and is a key part of a bigger plan to reinvigorate this important part of the city.

“This prestigious development will open up East Street, re-connect the walk way between the city centre and St. Mary’s and provides some good quality improvements to the area and to the shopping experience.

"Local traders, residents and other interested parties support this exciting project and I, like them, am looking forward to seeing the next phase of the development move ahead.”